"The girl. Is she here?"
"She was, M'Lord. I thought you had sent her home. She said she was only here for a visit. She only stayed for a few hours. She slept mostly. But her father sent her back. Did you not see her on your travels?"
"No. I did not give her permission to leave. I doubt she is heading back. My men will find her."
"My apologies, M'Lord. If she returns, I will send word."
"That won't be necessary. She will not return."
Nathaniel's anger had taken over. He liked that Rose was defiant to an extent. But this would not go over with his father. She had not only run away but had stolen a horse, his horse no less! Men had been killed for less. His men would find her. He walked to the barn and to his surprise found his horse. He had been groomed and fed. The horse he had seen her ride before was gone.
